25 NOVEMBER 1876, Page 24

The Child Samuel. By Edward M. Goulburn, D.D., Dean of

Norwich. (Rivingtons.)— These sermons will be acceptable to those who like Bible lessons in a highly diluted form,—a taste, however, which is not common among children. In the beginning of the volume elaborate "instructions" are given "how to begin and conclude the study of this book," which instructions, we fear, will be to most young persons who follow them out somewhat too burdensome. A writer is scarcely at liberty to direct in what posture his book shall be read, as thus :—" Then, rising from your knees, and sitting (but not in an indolent or slovenly attitude), or if you prefer it, kneeling still, read one of these chapters, or part of one of them." Criticism must be sparing when applied by those who have not read this book in the attitude which the author considers to be necessary for a proper comprehension of it.